The first of a two-part series, this volume addresses the broad scope of questions and issues that confront local governments when formulating or reevaluating cable policy. In 11 chapters, 14 authors present an historical perspective and discuss cable technology and state-of-the-art options: (1) "Overview of Cable TV Services and Technology," Nancy J. Jesuale and Ralph Lee Smith; (2) "Cable System Revenues and Expenses," Deborah Love-Heilig; (3) "Enhanced and Interactive Services," Janet L. Quigley; (4) "Security and Fire Alarm Services," John Mansell; (5) "Institutional Networks," Thomas E. Wolfsohn; (6) "Community Programming: Public Access and Local Origination," Susan Bednarczyk, Tom Borrup, Janet Quigley, and Margaret Shulz; (7) "Local Government Uses of Cable," John Velie; (8) "Educational Uses of Cable," Carol Brown Eilber; (9) "Health Uses of Cable," Charlotte A. Bliss; (10) "Telecommunications Needs Assessments," Harriet Moss; and (11) "Vital Links-- Interconnection of Cable Systems," Linda J. Camp. Appended materials include "Elements of Community Television Production," John Velie; "Glossary of Cable Terms," Lonni Moffet; "Bibliography," Reed Carpenter; and "Satellite Program Services" (a listing). Diagrams and tables of data are included in various chapters. (LMM)

The essays in this book trace many of the multitudinous forces at work on the Constitution and in the popular culture and show how the forces control and benefit each other. The subject is of profound importance and, beginning with these essays, needs to be studied at great length for the benefit of us all.

Reveals how African Americans used cable television as a means of empowerment. While previous scholarship on African Americans and the media has largely focused on issues such as stereotypes and program content, Struggles for Equal Voice reveals how African Americans have utilized access to cable television production and viewership as a significant step toward achieving empowerment during the postCivil Rights and Black Power era. In this pioneering study of two metropolitan districtsBoston and DetroitYuya Kiuchi paints a rich and fascinating historical account of African Americans working with municipal offices, local politicians, cable service providers, and other interested parties to realize fair African American representation and media ownership. Their success provides a useful lesson of community organizing, image production, education, and grassroots political action that remains relevant and applicable even today.